Idaho’s 2023 Legislative Session
Along with Idaho REALTORS, I’ve followed closely the work of the first session of the 67th Idaho Legislature. We’ve sponsored and supported of several pieces of legislation. These bills are aimed at improving transparency, protecting homeowners from predatory practices, and providing property tax relief.
One of the bills sponsored by Idaho Realtors that I’ve supported is HB51, which requires Idaho counties to provide more transparency for residential property taxpayers. Beginning in 2024, all Idaho counties will be required to provide a clear description of assessed value, property taxes collected, property tax budget growth, and services supported by the property tax collection. These disclosures will be provided on the existing property tax assessment notice, providing greater transparency for taxpayers.
Another bill sponsored by Idaho Realtors that I support is HB65, which cleans up dead Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Idaho Attorney General URL links associated with the mortgage foreclosure notice. This bill is aimed at improving the efficiency and accuracy of the foreclosure process, making it easier for homeowners who are facing foreclosure to understand their options.
HB157 is another bill sponsored by Idaho Realtors that I backed. This bill bans HOAs or their management company from charging fees to provide a homeowner with their statement of account (what is owed or due) during the closing process. If an HOA or their management company breaches this statute, it is a violation of the Idaho Consumer Protection Act, providing greater protection for homeowners.
HB238 is a bill sponsored by Idaho Realtors aimed at protecting vulnerable homeowners from predatory practices. This bill outlaws unfair service agreements in Idaho, deeming existing unfair service agreements unenforceable by law. This bill adds this predatory practice to the Idaho Consumer Protection Act, providing greater protection for homeowners.
In addition to sponsoring legislation, Idaho Realtors also support several bills aimed at providing property tax relief and expanding workforce development programs. One of these bills is HB292, which creates the Homeowner’s Property Tax Relief Fund and the School Districts Facilities Fund. The School District Facilities Fund is targeted to deliver fundamental changes to school facilities funding without increasing property taxes. This bill allows school districts to bond against the revenue in the fund in the coming years and removes the March election date for school district bonds and levies, providing greater flexibility for school districts.
HB24 & SB1167 are bills aimed at expanding the Idaho Launch Grant Program, offering grant opportunities to all Idaho high school seniors who choose to pursue career technical training for in-demand jobs. Grants fund up to $8,000 per Idaho high school senior, providing greater access to workforce development programs.
HB166a is a bill aimed at providing greater flexibility for homeowners, allowing them to convert an attached space for the greatest and best use of their property. This bill bans HOAs from prohibiting Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), providing more options for renters.
Finally, HB258 is a bill aimed at providing greater support for disabled veterans in Idaho. This bill removes the annual re-application requirement for 100% disabled veterans receiving the special property tax reduction of $1,500.
In conclusion, my support of Idaho Realtors sponsored and supported legislation is aimed at providing greater transparency, protecting homeowners from predatory practices, and providing property tax relief and workforce development programs. These bills are aimed at improving the lives of Idahoans and strengthening our great state’s economy.